In last week’s blog we talked about how commercial security could give a business owner peace of mind knowing their property and employees are safe and secure. This week we want to discuss how some automation can help with the daily office tasks in a business.

Commercial automation for a business can be a simple or complex system; it all depends on the business owner and what they want. For example, as a business owner, you could disarm your security system, unlock the door, and turn on the lights all by one touch of a button on your smartphone. Furthermore, you could even adjust the HVAC unit to the optimal temperature while you are in or out of the office. Not only can automation can help a business owner manage their office remotely from any smartphone or iPad, it can also help manage energy efficiency of the office, too.

For instance, shade and lighting control can tie into your automation system very easily, and help with energy savings. If you have an office with many floor to ceiling windows, shade control can help maintain the heat/cooling of the office without constantly turning the HVAC unit temperature up or down. Also, lighting control motion sensors can help with energy savings as well, but lighting control can go beyond just turning on or off a light.

While still being energy saving conscious, lighting control can help create ‘scenes’ for certain areas of your business office. For example, you showcase your company’s work on the wall; why not create an illuminating scene for when guests and potential clients come in. Make your work noticeable and eye catching.

Also, many office waiting areas are either too dim or too bright, creating a dungeon like area or a stark clean hospital welcome. Well, if you have a waiting area; why not create an inviting and warm welcoming scene with lighting control!

Guess what day it is? Mike...Mike, guess what day it is??? Not only is it hump day, but today is also Earth Day! Instead of just planting a tree or going with the motto of reduce, reuse, and recycle; adopting a green lifestyle at home is an important part of the global drive to protect the environment. Learning how to be green at home is one of the easiest ways to make a meaningful contribution to the Earth!

Check out our green living tips below:

1. Heating:

HVAC systems account for almost half the energy usage in the home. To reduce your energy uses consider setting your thermostat a couple of degrees lower in winter and a little higher in summer. Delaying the point at which your heater or air conditioner kicks in cuts down on your energy use. Or having a programmable thermostat can be highly effective in conserving electricity because they can be used to run air conditioning and heating systems only when they are truly needed.

Also, proper maintenance will keep your HVAC system running at peak efficiency as well. Furthermore, weather stripping windows and doors will provide insulation and reduce the need for heating or air conditioning.